Kenya can curb climate change by keeping fossil fuels in the ground
Environment
By
Emmanuel Mutuku
| Sep 17, 2023
Kenya is a country that is already feeling the effects of climate change. Droughts are becoming more frequent and severe, and floods are becoming more common.
These extreme weather events are having a devastating impact on people's lives and livelihoods. It can play a leading role in the fight against climate change by keeping fossil fuels in the ground.
The country has a wealth of renewable energy resources, such as solar, wind, and geothermal power. By investing in these resources, Kenya can reduce its reliance on fossil fuels and help to mitigate the effects of climate change.
Kenya has already set a target of generating 100% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030. This target should be made even more ambitious, and the government should take steps to ensure that it is met.
We need to invest in the infrastructure needed to support a transition to a clean energy future. This includes building new solar and wind farms, as well as upgrading the country's transmission and distribution networks.
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The government should provide incentives for businesses and individuals to invest in renewable energy projects. This could include tax breaks, feed-in tariffs, or other financial assistance.
Kenya currently provides subsidies for fossil fuels, such as gasoline and diesel. These subsidies should be phased out in order to discourage the use of fossil fuels and encourage the use of renewable energy.
Deforestation is a major contributor to climate change, as it releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Kenya should take steps to reduce deforestation, such as planting trees and enforcing laws against illegal logging.
Kenya can also reduce its reliance on fossil fuels by improving energy efficiency. This can be done by investing in energy-efficient appliances and buildings, and by promoting public transportation.
Even if Kenya is able to reduce its emissions, the country will still be affected by climate change. We should start planning for the effects of climate change, such as by building seawalls to protect coastal communities from flooding.
By taking these steps, Kenya can help to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels and help to mitigate the effects of climate change. This will not only benefit the environment, but it will also create jobs and boost the economy.